The hike is not very simple due to very steep descending for first 5 km. But it is manageable. We started at 8:30 am and came to the village at 4 pm. For the first 4-5 km we were being late, my husband started having a knees issues. But then we catch up when the trail became not so steep. The views are gorgeous. But we spent most of time looking down because trail is very rocky. Did not have much time to enjoy the views considering the terrain and the time needed to reach the ferry downhills. But we are still happy we tried and did that. Thanks to our guide Dimitris. He kept us on pace and helped with everything.

We were picked up in Chania at 0610 as advised and after a short breakfast break (best bring your own) transported to Omalos at the start of the gorge. You walk the gorge at your own pace and meet up with the guide at a taverna about 1630 where you collect your ferry tickets for the return trip. In our case the ferry went at 1730 so quite a bit of waiting around. The guide does not walk with you but brings up the rear in case anyone requires assistance. Several good but basic tavernas to choose from in Ag Roumeli. There was a bit of a mix up on the return trip which and it took much longer than expected to get back to Chania. We got back to our hotel at about 2200. The bus driver was obviously very experienced but in my opinion and I think a few others he was going far too fast on the mountain roads which made for an uncomfortable experience.

I loved the hike! Having a guide to organize the stops made it a little easier, and it was also an opportunity to meet some new people. Orestis, our guide, was great and very clear with the group. Spent a couple of hours at Agia Roumeli beach before having to get the ferry from there back to the bus. Highly recommend for any visits to Crete!